Empowering students every day with individualized opportunities for growth and success – that's the goal at State College Area School District, headquartered in State College, Pennsylvania.
This high performing district educates over 6,700 students in 13 schools. The urban and rural district is 150 square miles and encompasses the Borough of State College and townships of College, Ferguson, Halfmoon, Harris and Patton. According to the 2008 census, the district serves a population of over 86,000.
With competitive pay for teachers and staff, SCASD can select from the top personnel available. The district aims to provide a student-teacher ratio that's conducive to learning. For K-5, average class size is 20 students; for 6-8, average size is 23. High school class sizes vary due to the breadth of course offerings.
Speaking of courses, the district has a lot to offer. At the high school alone, there are more than 400 academic and vocational courses to choose from. All of the standard educational fare is covered, but courses like Arabic or Latin may come as a surprise. The district also proudly offers art and design instruction to students in every grade. Vocal and instrumental programs are also offered.
Students looking to combine academic and technical skill studies should look to the Career and Technical Center. From agricultural science to the culinary arts and more, there’s a wide variety of school-to-career training programs available.
Student athletes have no shortages of options, either. The district runs a comprehensive intramural and PIAA-affiliated interscholastic athletic program for students in grades 4-12. The high school also features a natatorium, where students can participate in an open swim before morning classes.
When it comes to facilities, the district operates nine elementary schools, two middle schools, a high school and four public charter schools. Radio Park and Corl Street elementary schools, plus State College Area High School, are either finished with or nearing completion of major construction projects.
State High students are now in their first full school year at the new building on Westerly Parkway, after a $137 million renovation. Students can take full advantage of a revamped food court with made-to-order items, improved classrooms for Career and Technical Center programs, an increased number of bathrooms and water fountains, a new library, and more. Students will soon be able to enjoy another round of improvements at Memorial Field as well, with plans including new home bleachers with additional seats and locker rooms below, improved restrooms and entrances, a concession plaza, and more.
It's clear there's a lot happening in the State College Area School District. But when choosing a school for your child, you need to be certain you're making the right choice for their academic future.
You could always take a look at the numbers: State College Area High School reported a graduation rate of 97.5 percent in 2015, compared to the state's average of 93 percent. The district has also had high rankings in SAT scores, placing 24 out of 650 Pennsylvania high schools in 2015. That year, average scores for SAT writing, math and critical reading were 530, 563 and 549, respectively.
If you’re still undecided, visit an athletic event in a renovated stadium, or take in a concert or show by one of the school’s many performance groups. We think you'll agree: State College Area School District has spirit, and a clear record of academic and athletic success.
Prospective families are encouraged to visit the district's website here.
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